Volunteer

The Philadelphia Zoo offers volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups ranging in abilities and in age from 14 to 90+ years old. Most of the Zoo’s approximately 500 volunteers support our education programs in an on-going basis, teaching Zoo visitors about animals and conservation projects. Additionally, volunteers provide office assistance and professional services. One-time opportunities are offered depending upon seasonal programming. Further, the Zoo utilizes over 175 interns each year, providing individuals with valuable career experience in a variety of fields including animal care, education and business administration.

Volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year and are essential members of our staff, helping the Zoo advance our educational programs and conservation efforts. Our many programs offer a variety of volunteer experiences, with a range of commitment levels and training.

Not all opportunities are a good fit for all potential volunteers, so please read the program descriptions carefully before submitting an application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. We are unable to arrange job shadows or volunteer opportunities with our veterinary staff. Please note that most volunteer opportunities do not involve direct contact with animals.

Zoo volunteers must be at least 14 years old. Too young to volunteer? Consider enrolling in one of our summer camps!

Interested in having the Philadelphia Zoo to participate in your school’s Career Day? Please send your request to education@phillyzoo.org.

FOR: AdultsTO APPLY: Applications are accepted September 1 – March 31COMMITMENT: Attend a minimum of 4 meetings per yearREQUIRED SKILLS: Digital photography, internetOTHER REQUIREMENTS: Annual dues, Zoo membership, successful completion of required background checksPROGRAM OVERVIEW: Our Camera Club is for adult Zoo members with an interest in photography; members range from amateurs to professionals, there is no required level or skill or equipment. The club meets on a regular basis to share their photos and develop their techniques. Additionally, there are regularly scheduled photo shoots in the Zoo for active club members that often include early access to exhibits that you may not have otherwise. Members contribute their photos to the Zoo for us to use in our marketing materials including print materials, signage and social media. In addition, members serve a vital role in documenting zoo activities, such as special visits and events.

FOR: Adults, Teens at least 14 years old, College studentsTO APPLY: Volunteers are recruited in September COMMITMENT: One 3.5 hour shiftREQUIRED SKILLS: Customer service, working with children, ability to volunteer outdoorsOTHER REQUIREMENTS: Sign a liability waiverPROGRAM OVERVIEW: It’s our annual Halloween event! Guests enjoy trick or treating in the Zoo, free with admission. Approximately 75 volunteers per shift are needed to help with candy distribution and Halloween-themed crafts and games. We can accommodate groups of up to 15 people.

FOR: AdultsTO APPLY: Applications are May 1 – September 1. Training course begins in the early fall.COMMITMENT: 90 weekday hours or 60 weekend hours per yearREQUIRED SKILLS: Customer service, public speakingOTHER REQUIREMENTS: Annual dues, Zoo membership, successful completion of required background checks, successful completion of training coursePROGRAM OVERVIEW: Docents participate in a variety of programs to support the Zoo. They give guided tours, ranging from general tours to special tours on adaptations, endangered species, habitats, Zoo horticulture, art and architecture. Docents also staff Just Ask carts and mobile stations located throughout the Zoo using artifacts and biofacts to engage the public in conversation, answer questions and serve as interpreters of the animal kingdom.

Opportunities for Teens

FOR: Teens ages 14 to 18TO APPLY: Applications are accepted March 1 - May 15 for ZooCREW 1 COMMITMENT: 24 hours between April and OctoberREQUIRED SKILLS: Interest in conservation, punctuality, ability to work in a teamOTHER REQUIREMENTS: Successful completion of required background checks. In order to be accepted in ZooCREW 2, students must successfully complete ZooCREW 1PROGRAM OVERVIEW: Zoo Champions for Restoring Endangered Wildlife (ZooCREW) is an immersive volunteer program at the Philadelphia Zoo where teens can become conservation ambassadors, gain experience working with animals, and take action for animal conservation.

FOR: Teens at least 16 years oldTO APPLY: Applications are accepted March 1 – April 30COMMITMENT: 90 hours (summers only)REQUIRED SKILLS: Working with childrenOTHER REQUIREMENTS: Successful completion of required background checksPROGRAM OVERVIEW: Did you love camp as a kid? Have you ever wanted to learn what it takes to be a camp counselor? Volunteering as a Camp Counselor Assistant at the Philadelphia Zoo will teach you everything you need to know.

Application Instructions

Applications are accepted online only for programs currently recruiting new volunteers. Upon receipt of the application, qualified applicants will be contacted via email with further instructions regarding the interview process for that program.